Antique chair - unknown origin

Hello All! I ran across this very unique looking chair at a shop in Japan. Due to language barriers, I don't know anything about it. What I do know, is that it better be something really special for him to ask nearly $1,000.00 for it! LOL (Mama always said I had expensive taste.) If anyone out there could give me some idea of what type of chair this is (reminds me of a slipper chair sans upholstery) or when it may have been made or if it's even Japanese - I'd very much appreciate it.

Thanks in advance!